Resection of an inferior pontine cavernous malformation using a far-lateral transcondylar approach

BACKGROUND: When considering an approach to remove a symptomatic brainstem cavernous malformation, exposure and adequate visualization of the lesion with minimal morbidity should be the primary goals.

METHOD: We describe the use of the far-lateral transcondylar technique to access a cavernous malformation in the lower anterior pons.

RESULTS: This approach accesses the inferior belly of the pons in an inferior-to-superior direction, where the cavernous malformation approaches the surface between the root exit zones of the abducens (VI) cranial nerves.

CONCLUSION: We recommend adding this technique to the repertoire of approaches used to resect these technically challenging lesions in selected cases.